U.S. patent application number 13/801679 was filed with the patent office on 2014-03-27 for gaming system and method for providing a symbol matrix with a moveable symbol display window.
This patent application is currently assigned to IGT. The applicant listed for this patent is IGT. Invention is credited to Ernest M. Lafky, Mark C. Nicely, Benjamin J. Zoltewicz.
Application Number | 20140087832 13/801679 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50339373 |
Filed Date | 2014-03-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140087832 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Zoltewicz; Benjamin J. ; et
al. |
March 27, 2014 |
GAMING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING A SYMBOL MATRIX WITH A
MOVEABLE SYMBOL DISPLAY WINDOW
Abstract
In various embodiments, the present disclosure generally relates
to gaming systems and methods which utilize a symbol matrix or
symbol field in conjunction with a movable symbol display window to
randomly select different subsets of symbols from the symbol matrix
and provide different awards to players based on such selected
symbol subsets.
Inventors: |
Zoltewicz; Benjamin J.;
(Mill Valley, CA) ; Nicely; Mark C.; (Daly City,
CA) ; Lafky; Ernest M.; (San Francisco, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
IGT |
Reno |
NV |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
IGT
Reno
NV
|
Family ID: |
50339373 |
Appl. No.: |
13/801679 |
Filed: |
March 13, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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13626344 |
Sep 25, 2012 |
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13801679 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/20 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3244 20130101;
G07F 17/3295 20130101; G07F 17/3213 20130101; G07F 17/3223
20130101; G07F 17/326 20130101; G07F 17/3267 20130101; G07F 17/34
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/20 |
International
Class: |
G07F 17/34 20060101
G07F017/34 |
Claims
1. A gaming system comprising: at least one display device; at
least one input device; at least one processor; and at least one
memory device which stores a plurality of instructions, which when
executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one
processor to operate with the at least one display device and the
at least one input device to, for a play of a game: (a) randomly
generate a plurality of symbols at a plurality of symbol display
positions of a symbol matrix, (b) determine a location of a symbol
display window relative to the symbol matrix, said symbol display
window including a plurality of symbol display window positions,
wherein a quantity of the symbol display window positions of the
symbol display window is less than a quantity of the symbol display
positions of the symbol matrix such that each symbol display window
position of the symbol display window corresponds with one of the
symbol display positions of the symbol matrix, (c) for each of a
plurality of the symbol display window positions of the symbol
display window, display the symbol of the corresponding symbol
display position of the symbol matrix, (d) determine if any of the
symbols displayed at the symbol display window positions of the
symbol display window form any winning symbol combinations, and (e)
if the symbols displayed at the symbol display window positions of
the symbol display window form at least one winning symbol
combination, display an award for each formed winning symbol
combination.
2. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein when executed by the at
least one processor, the plurality of instructions cause the at
least one processor to randomly determine the location of the
symbol display window.
3. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein when executed by the at
least one processor, the plurality of instructions cause the at
least one processor to determine the location of the symbol display
window based, at least in part, on at least one player input.
4. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein when executed by the at
least one processor for another play of the game, the plurality of
instructions cause the at least one processor to: (i) randomly
generate another plurality of symbols at the plurality of symbol
display positions of the symbol matrix (ii) determine another
location of the symbol display window relative to the symbol matrix
such that each symbol display window position of the symbol display
window corresponds with another one of the symbol display positions
of the symbol matrix, (iii) for each of the symbol display window
positions of the symbol display window, display the symbol of the
corresponding symbol display position of the symbol matrix, (iv)
determine if any of the symbols displayed at the symbol display
window positions of the symbol display window form any winning
symbol combinations, and (v) if the symbols displayed at the symbol
display window positions of the symbol display window form at least
one winning symbol combination, display an award for each formed
winning symbol combination.
5. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of symbol
display window positions of the symbol display window form five
columns and three rows and the plurality of symbol display
positions of the symbol matrix form nine columns and three
rows.
6. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein when executed by the at
least one processor, the plurality of instructions cause the at
least one processor to enable the player to place a wager on the
play of the game.
7. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein at least one award for at
least one of any formed winning symbol combination include at least
one of: (i) an amount of monetary credits, (ii) an amount of
non-monetary credits, (iii) an amount of promotional credits and
(iv) an amount of player tracking points.
8. A method of operating a gaming system, for a play of a game,
said method comprising: (a) causing at least one processor to
execute a plurality of instructions to randomly generate a
plurality of symbols at a plurality of symbol display positions of
a symbol matrix, (b) causing the at least one processor to execute
the plurality of instructions to determine a location of a symbol
display window relative to the symbol matrix, said symbol display
window including a plurality of symbol display window positions,
wherein a quantity of the symbol display window positions of the
symbol display window is less than a quantity of the symbol display
positions of the symbol matrix such that each symbol display window
position of the symbol display window corresponds with one of the
symbol display positions of the symbol matrix, (c) for each of a
plurality of the symbol display window positions of the symbol
display window, causing at least one display device to display the
symbol of the corresponding symbol display position of the symbol
matrix, (d) causing the at least one processor to execute the
plurality of instructions to determine if any of the symbols
displayed at the symbol display window positions of the symbol
display window form any winning symbol combinations, and (e) if the
symbols displayed at the symbol display window positions of the
symbol display window form at least one winning symbol combination,
causing the at least one display device to display an award for
each formed winning symbol combination.
9. The method of claim 8, which includes causing the at least one
processor to execute the plurality of instructions to randomly
determine the location of the symbol display window.
10. The method of claim 8, which includes causing the at least one
processor to execute the plurality of instructions to determine the
location of the symbol display window based, at least in part, on
at least one player input.
11. The method of claim 8, which includes, for another play of the
game: (i) causing the at least one processor to execute the
plurality of instructions to randomly generate another plurality of
symbols at the plurality of symbol display positions of the symbol
matrix (ii) causing the at least one processor to execute the
plurality of instructions to determine another location of the
symbol display window relative to the symbol matrix such that each
symbol display window position of the symbol display window
corresponds with another one of the symbol display positions of the
symbol matrix, (iii) for each of the symbol display window
positions of the symbol display window, causing the at least one
display device to display the symbol of the corresponding symbol
display position of the symbol matrix, (iv) causing the at least
one processor to execute the plurality of instructions to determine
if any of the symbols displayed at the symbol display window
positions of the symbol display window form any winning symbol
combinations, and (v) if the symbols displayed at the symbol
display window positions of the symbol display window form at least
one winning symbol combination, causing the at least one display
device to display an award for each formed winning symbol
combination.
12. The method of claim 8, wherein the plurality of symbol display
window positions of the symbol display window form five columns and
three rows and the plurality of symbol display positions of the
symbol matrix form nine columns and three rows.
13. The method of claim 8, which includes enabling the player to
place a wager on the play of the game.
14. The method of claim 8, wherein at least one award for at least
one of any formed winning symbol combination include at least one
of; (i) an amount of monetary credits, (ii) an amount of
non-monetary credits, (iii) an amount of promotional credits and
(iv) an amount of player tracking points.
15. The method of claim 8, which is provided through a data
network.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the data network is the
internet.
17. A non-transitory computer readable medium including a plurality
of instructions, which when executed by at least one processor for
a play of a game, cause the at least one processor to: (a) randomly
generate a plurality of symbols at a plurality of symbol display
positions of a symbol matrix, (b) determine a location of a symbol
display window relative to the symbol matrix, said symbol display
window including a plurality of symbol display window positions,
wherein a quantity of the symbol display window positions of the
symbol display window is less than a quantity of the symbol display
positions of the symbol matrix such that each symbol display window
position of the symbol display window corresponds with one of the
symbol display positions of the symbol matrix, (c) for each of a
plurality of the symbol display window positions of the symbol
display window, cause at least one display device to display the
symbol of the corresponding symbol display position of the symbol
matrix, (d) determine if any of the symbols displayed at the symbol
display window positions of the symbol display window form any
winning symbol combinations, and (e) if the symbols displayed at
the symbol display window positions of the symbol display window
form at least one winning symbol combination, cause the at least
one display device to display an award for each formed winning
symbol combination.
18. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 17,
wherein when executed by the at least one processor, the plurality
of instructions cause the at least one processor to randomly
determine the location of the symbol display window.
19. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 17,
wherein when executed by the at least one processor, the plurality
of instructions cause the at least one processor to determine the
location of the symbol display window based, at least in part, on
at least one player input.
20. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 17,
wherein when executed by the at least one processor for another
play of the game, the plurality of instructions cause the at least
one processor to: (i) randomly generate another plurality of
symbols at the plurality of symbol display positions of the symbol
matrix (ii) determine another location of the symbol display window
relative to the symbol matrix such that each symbol display window
position of the symbol display window corresponds with another one
of the symbol display positions of the symbol matrix, (iii) for
each of the symbol display window positions of the symbol display
window, cause the at least one display device to display the symbol
of the corresponding symbol display position of the symbol matrix,
(iv) determine if any of the symbols displayed at the symbol
display window positions of the symbol display window form any
winning symbol combinations, and (v) if the symbols displayed at
the symbol display window positions of the symbol display window
form at least one winning symbol combination, cause the at least
one display device to display an award for each formed winning
symbol combination.
21. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 17,
wherein the plurality of symbol display window positions of the
symbol display window form five columns and three rows and the
plurality of symbol display positions of the symbol matrix form
nine columns and three rows.
22. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 17,
wherein when executed by the at least one processor, the plurality
of instructions cause the at least one processor to enable the
player to place a wager on the play of the game.
23. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 17,
wherein at least one award for at least one of any formed winning
symbol combination include at least one of: (i) an amount of
monetary credits, (ii) an amount of non-monetary credits, (iii) an
amount of promotional credits and (iv) an amount of player tracking
points.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] This application is a continuation of, claims priority to
and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/626,344,
filed on Sep. 25, 2012, the entire contents of which is
incorporated by reference herein.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
[0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright
owner has no objection to the photocopy reproduction of the patent
document or the patent disclosure in exactly the form it appears in
the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but
otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Gaming machines which provide players awards in primary or
base games are known. Gaming machines generally require the player
to place or make a wager to activate the primary or base game. In
many of these gaming machines, the award is based on the player
obtaining a winning symbol or symbol combination and on the amount
of the wager (e.g., the higher the wager, the higher the award).
Symbols or symbol combinations which are less likely to occur
usually provide higher awards.
[0004] One such gaming machine includes a plurality of reels that
each include a plurality of symbols. These gaming machines enable a
player to place a wager on one or more paylines associated with a
plurality of symbol positions. For each of the reels, certain of
the symbols on that reel are generated independently from the
symbols on each of the other reels to provide a combination of
symbols. If a winning combination of symbols is generated and
displayed along a wagered-on payline, the gaming machine provides
an award for that payline. If a losing combination of symbols is
generated and displayed along a wagered-on payline, the gaming
machine provides no award for that payline. Certain of such gaming
machines are known to nudge or move, either automatically or in
response to a player input, one or more of the reels one or more
reel stop positions to modify the generated combination of symbols
Such nudging may modify: (i) the generated combination of symbols
from a losing combination of symbols to a winning combination of
symbols, or (ii) the generated combination of symbols from a
winning combination of symbols to a losing combination of symbols.
Modifying such generated symbols to potentially alter the award
provided to the player provides excitement and enjoyment for
certain players.
[0005] Accordingly, there is a continuing need to provide new and
different gaming systems as well as new and different ways to
provide awards to players.
SUMMARY
[0006] In various embodiments, the present disclosure generally
relates to gaming systems and methods which utilize a symbol matrix
or symbol field in conjunction with a movable symbol display window
to randomly select different subsets of symbols from the symbol
matrix and provide different awards to players based on such
selected symbol subsets.
[0007] More specifically, in various embodiments, the gaming system
disclosed herein includes a persistent or ongoing symbol matrix or
symbol field. The symbol matrix includes a plurality of symbol
display positions, spaces or spots. The gaming system continuously
displays one of a plurality of different symbols at each of the
symbol display positions of the ongoing symbol matrix. In various
embodiments, the gaming system displays different symbols at
different points in time at one or more of the symbol display
positions of the symbol matrix. In these embodiments, the gaming
system periodically modifies the ongoing symbol matrix by changing
one or more of the symbols displayed at one or more of the symbol
display positions.
[0008] In addition to displaying a symbol matrix including a
plurality of symbol display positions, the gaming system disclosed
herein displays a moveable symbol display window associated with
the symbol matrix or field. The symbol display window includes a
plurality of symbol display window positions. A quantity of symbol
display window positions of the symbol display window is less than
a quantity of symbol display positions of the symbol matrix. Such a
configuration provides that the gaming system displays a subset of
the symbol display positions of the symbol matrix in the symbol
display window (and thus the gaming system displays a subset of the
displayed symbols of the symbol matrix in the symbol display
window). Put differently, the gaming system utilizes the symbol
display window to display the currently active symbol display
positions of the symbol matrix.
[0009] In one embodiment, the gaming system displays: (i) the
moveable symbol display window in the foreground, and (ii) the
symbol matrix in the background. In one such embodiment, the gaming
system displays the symbols in the symbol display positions of the
symbol matrix as a first size and further displays the symbols in
the symbol display window positions of the symbol display window as
a second, greater size (i.e., the gaming system appears to magnify
the display of the symbols in the symbol display window).
Displaying the symbol display window at different perceived depths
and displaying the symbols as different sizes (based on whether or
not such symbols are viewed in the symbol display window) provides
that certain portions of the symbol matrix are viewable through the
symbol display window and certain other portions of the symbol
matrix are blocked by (or otherwise not displayed because of) the
magnified viewed portions.
[0010] In operation of various embodiments, for a play of a game,
the gaming system moves or otherwise modifies the location of the
symbol display window relative to the symbol matrix. In one such
embodiment, the gaming system moves the symbol display window
(relative to the symbol matrix) to a randomly determined location
of the symbol matrix. In another such embodiment, the gaming system
enables a player to input a direction of movement of the symbol
display window and the gaming system moves the symbol display
window to a location of the symbol matrix based on a randomly
determined distance in the player inputted direction. In another
such embodiment, the gaming system enables a player to input a
distance of movement of the symbol display window and the gaming
system moves the symbol display window the player inputted distance
to a location of the symbol matrix based on a randomly determined
direction. By enabling the player to at least partially affect the
movement of the symbol display window, such embodiments employ an
element of skill or strategy in playing the game. It should be
appreciated that since one or more of the symbols displayed at the
symbol display positions of the symbol matrix are known by the
player prior to the movement of the symbol display window, the
subsequent movement of the symbol display window over such known
displayed symbols provides many players with an anticipatory
experience not otherwise associated with certain known gaming
machines which include a plurality of reels.
[0011] Following the movement of the symbol display window, the
gaming system displays a plurality of symbols at the symbol display
window positions of the symbol display window. The symbols
displayed at the symbol display window positions of the symbol
display window correspond with the symbols displayed at the symbol
display positions of the symbol display window's relative location
in the symbol matrix or field. That is, the symbol display window
displays a subset of the symbols displayed at the symbol display
positions of the symbol matrix wherein which subset of symbols is
displayed is based on the location of the symbol display window
relative to the symbol matrix.
[0012] After displaying the symbols at the symbol display window
positions of the symbol display window, the gaming system
determines if any of the symbols of the symbol display window
positions of the symbol display window are associated with any
awards. The gaming system then displays any awards associated with
such displayed symbols and completes the play of the game.
[0013] In one embodiment, after completing a play of the game, the
next play of the game utilizes the same symbol matrix (or when
accounting for any modifications to or replacements of any
individual symbols at any individual symbol display positions,
substantially the same symbol matrix). In this embodiment, while
the symbols of the ongoing or persistent symbol matrix remain the
same (or substantially the same) from one game play to the next,
based on any subsequent movement of the symbol display window, the
gaming system displays different symbols at the symbol display
window positions of the symbol display window. That is, while a
plurality of the symbols of the symbol matrix remain unchanged from
game to game, the symbols analyzed for any associated awards change
based on or more random determinations (and zero, one or more
player inputs). Accordingly, the gaming system disclosed herein
provides an increased level of excitement and enjoyment for certain
players as such players attempt to explore different portions of
the ongoing symbol matrix or field and thus attempt to win
different awards.
[0014] Additional features and advantages are described in, and
will be apparent from, the following Detailed Description and the
figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0015] FIG. 1 is a flow chart of an example process for operating a
gaming system providing one embodiment of a moving symbol display
window game.
[0016] FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2G and 2H are front views of
one embodiment of the gaming system disclosed herein illustrating a
plurality of plays of an example moving symbol display window
game.
[0017] FIG. 3A is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a
network configuration of the gaming system disclosed herein.
[0018] FIG. 3B is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of an
electronic configuration of the gaming system disclosed herein.
[0019] FIGS. 4A and 4B are perspective views of example alternative
embodiments of the gaming system disclosed herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Symbol Display Window
[0020] In various embodiments, the present disclosure generally
relates to gaming systems and methods for providing a moving symbol
display window game. In such embodiments, the gaming system
utilizes a symbol matrix or symbol field in conjunction with a
movable symbol display window to randomly select different subsets
of symbols from the symbol matrix and provide different awards to
players based on such selected symbol subsets.
[0021] While the embodiments described below are directed to a
primary wagering game, it should be appreciated that the present
disclosure may additionally or alternatively be employed in
association with a secondary game. Moreover, while the player's
credit balance, the player's wager, and any awards are displayed as
an amount of monetary credits or currency in certain of the
embodiments described below, one or more of such player's credit
balance, such player's wager, and any awards provided to such a
player may be for non-monetary credits, promotional credits, and/or
player tracking points or credits.
[0022] Referring now to FIG. 1, a flowchart of an example
embodiment of a process for operating a gaming system or a gaming
device disclosed herein is illustrated. In one embodiment, this
process is embodied in one or more software programs stored in one
or more memories and executed by one or more processors or servers.
Although this process is described with reference to the flowchart
illustrated in FIG. 1, it should be appreciated that many other
methods of performing the acts associated with this process may be
used. For example, the order of certain steps described may be
changed, or certain steps described may be optional.
[0023] In one embodiment, upon an occurrence of a moving symbol
display window game triggering event, as indicated in block 102 of
FIG. 1, the gaming system triggers a play of a moving symbol
display window game. In one embodiment, the moving symbol display
window game disclosed herein is a primary wagering game wherein a
moving symbol display window triggering event occurs upon a player
placing a wager to play the moving symbol display window game. In
another such embodiment, the moving symbol display window game is a
secondary or bonus game wherein a moving symbol display window
triggering event occurs based on a displayed event associated with
a wagered on play of a primary game. In another embodiment wherein
the moving symbol display window game is a secondary or bonus game,
a moving symbol display window triggering event occurs based on an
event independent of any displayed event associated with a wagered
on play of a primary game.
[0024] As indicated in block 104, for the triggered play of the
moving symbol display window game, the gaming system displays a
plurality of symbols at a plurality of symbol display positions of
a symbol matrix or symbol field. More specifically, the gaming
system displays a symbol matrix including a plurality of symbol
display positions. Each symbol display position displays or is
otherwise associated with one or more symbols. In one embodiment,
the symbol matrix includes a grid configuration having a plurality
of rows of symbol display positions and a plurality of columns of
symbol display positions. In another such embodiment, the symbol
matrix includes a non-grid configuration including a plurality of
symbol display positions.
[0025] For example, as seen in FIG. 2A, the gaming system displays
a symbol field 202 including a plurality of symbol display
positions 204. In this example, the gaming system displays one of a
plurality of symbols 206 at each of the symbol display
positions.
[0026] In one embodiment, the symbol matrix is an ongoing or
persistent symbol matrix which is displayed over multiple plays of
multiple moving symbol display window games. That is, for one or
more plays of the moving symbol display window game, the gaming
system displays the symbol matrix prior to the play of such games
and/or after the plays of such games. Put differently, for a
plurality of plays of the moving symbol display window game, the
gaming system simultaneously, overlapping or concurrently displays
one or more symbols at one or more symbol display positions of the
symbol matrix. In one such embodiment, as described below, for
zero, one or more of the symbol display positions, the gaming
system continuously displays the same symbol(s) at such symbol
display positions of the symbol matrix. In another such embodiment,
as also described below, for zero, one or more of the symbol
display positions, the gaming system displays different symbols, at
different points in time, at such symbol display positions of the
symbol matrix. In another embodiment, the gaming system generates
the symbols of the symbol display positions of the symbol matrix
for each play of (or alternatively for each of a plurality of plays
of) the moving symbol display window game.
[0027] For the play of the triggered moving symbol display window
game, the gaming system also displays a symbol display window
including a plurality of symbol display window positions as
indicated in block 106. The symbol display window is associated
with the symbol matrix such that a plurality of the symbols
displayed at the symbol display positions of the symbol matrix are
displayed at the symbol display window positions of the symbol
display window. That is, based on the current location of the
symbol display window relative to the symbol matrix, one or more
symbol display window positions of the symbol display correspond
with one or more symbol display positions of the symbol matrix such
that any symbol displayed at a symbol display position of the
symbol matrix is displayed at the corresponding symbol display
window position of the symbol display window.
[0028] Continuing with the above-described example, as seen in FIG.
2A, the gaming system displays a symbol display window 208
including a plurality of symbol display window positions 210. As
seen in this example, each of the symbol display window positions
210 corresponds to one of the symbol display positions 204 of the
symbol matrix and thus displays one of the symbols of the symbol
matrix. In this example, the gaming system provides appropriate
messages such as "YOU TRIGGERED THE MOVING SYMBOL DISPLAY WINDOW
GAME" and "TIME TO MOVE THE SYMBOL DISPLAY WINDOW" to the player
visually, or through suitable audio or audiovisual displays.
[0029] In one embodiment, a quantity of symbol display window
positions of the symbol display window is less than a quantity of
symbol display positions of the symbol matrix. For example, as seen
in FIG. 2A, the symbol display window includes fifteen symbol
display window positions while the symbol matrix includes more than
fifteen symbol display positions. Such a configuration provides
that the gaming system displays a subset of the symbol display
positions of the symbol matrix in the symbol display window (and
thus the gaming system displays a subset of the displayed symbols
of the symbol matrix in the symbol display window).
[0030] After displaying the symbol display window and the symbol
matrix, as indicated in block 108 of FIG. 1, the gaming system
enables the player to make one or more inputs to move or otherwise
modify the location of the symbol display window relative to the
symbol matrix. In one such embodiment, the gaming system enables a
player to input a direction of movement of the symbol display
window and the gaming system moves the symbol display window to a
location of the symbol matrix based on a randomly determined
distance in the player inputted direction. For example, as seen in
FIG. 2B, the player selected direction of movement 212a and the
gaming system moves or scrolls the symbol display window in the
player indicated direction. In this example, the gaming system
provides appropriate messages such as "YOU INDICATED TO MOVE THE
SYMBOL DISPLAY WINDOW TO THE LEFT" and "WHERE WILL THE SYMBOL
DISPLAY WINDOW STOP?" to the player visually, or through suitable
audio or audiovisual displays.
[0031] It should be appreciated that in certain embodiments, since
the gaming system displays certain symbols at the symbol display
positions of the symbol matrix, one or more of the symbols that the
player sees in the symbol display positions adjacent to or
otherwise near the symbol display window will be part of the next
subset of symbols displayed in the symbol display window positions,
although player cannot be exactly sure which symbols the gaming
system will display in which symbol display window positions. For
example, by making inputs to move the symbol display window
leftwards, the player is trying to select symbols of the symbol
matrix that will become part of the next outcome. In this example,
if the gaming system moves the symbol display window a randomly
selected distance, the player is not assured of which symbol
display window positions, if any, the selected symbols will appear
at for the next outcome. Accordingly, the gaming system of these
embodiments enables the player to select a volatility for the play
of the moving symbol display window game.
[0032] Following the player's selection of a direction of movement
of the symbol display window, the gaming system subsequently moves
the symbol display window a quantity of symbol display positions in
the selected direction of movement as indicated in block 110 of
FIG. 1. The gaming system then displays a plurality of the symbols
of the matrix at the symbol display window positions of the symbol
display window as indicated in block 112. As described above, the
symbols displayed at the symbol display window positions of the
symbol display window correspond with the symbols displayed at the
symbol display positions of the symbol display window's relative
location in the symbol matrix or field. That is, the symbol display
window displays a subset of the symbols displayed at the symbol
display positions of the symbol matrix wherein which subset of
symbols is displayed is based on the location of the symbol display
window relative to the symbol matrix.
[0033] As seen in FIG. 2C, following the movement of the symbol
display window, the gaming system displays a plurality of symbols
of the symbol matrix at the symbol display window positions of
symbol display window. In this example, the symbols 206 displayed
at symbol display window positions 210 of symbol display window 208
correspond to symbols 206 displayed at symbol display positions 204
of symbol matrix 202. In this example, the gaming system provides
appropriate messages such as "NOW THAT THE SYMBOL DISPLAY WINDOW
HAS STOPPED MOVING IT IS TIME TO EVALUATE THE SYMBOLS CURRENTLY
DISPLAYED IN THE SYMBOL DISPLAY WINDOW" to the player visually, or
through suitable audio or audiovisual displays.
[0034] After displaying a subset of the symbols of the symbol
matrix in the symbol display window position of the symbol display
window, the gaming system determines whether any of the symbols
displayed at the symbol display window positions of the symbol
display window are associated with any winning symbol combinations
as indicated in diamond 114 of FIG. 1. If the symbols displayed at
the symbol display window positions of the symbol display window
are associated with any winning symbol combinations, the gaming
system displays the award(s) associated with the determined winning
symbol combinations as indicated in block 116. Following displaying
the award(s) associated with the determined winning symbol
combinations (or if the symbols displayed at the symbol display
window positions of the symbol display window are not associated
with any winning symbol combinations), the gaming system returns to
block 102 and awaits another occurrence of a moving symbol display
window game triggering event.
[0035] Turning to FIG. 2D, following the movement of the symbol
display window, the gaming system determines that the banana
symbol-banana symbol-banana symbol combination currently displayed
at symbol display window positions 210a-210g-210m of the symbol
display window 208 are associated with an award of five-hundred
credits. Accordingly, the gaming system displays the award of
five-hundred credits to the player (as seen in the total award
meter 214) and awaits for another play of the moving symbol display
window game. In this example, the gaming system provides
appropriate messages such as "THE THREE BANANA SYMBOLS ARE
ASSOCIATED WITH AN AWARD OF 500" and "NICE WIN" to the player
visually, or through suitable audio OF audiovisual displays.
[0036] In one embodiment, after completing a play of the game, the
next play of the game utilizes the same symbol matrix (or when
accounting for any modifications to or replacements of any
individual symbols at any individual symbol display positions,
substantially the same symbol matrix). In this embodiment, while
the symbols of the ongoing or persistent symbol matrix remain the
same (or substantially the same) from one game play to the next,
based on any subsequent movement of the symbol display window, the
gaming system displays different symbols at the symbol display
window positions of the symbol display window. That is, while a
plurality of the symbols of the symbol matrix remain unchanged from
game to game, the symbols analyzed for any associated awards change
based on or more random determinations (and zero, one or more
player inputs). Accordingly, the gaming system disclosed herein
provides an increased level of excitement and enjoyment for certain
players as such players attempt to explore different portions of
the ongoing symbol matrix or field and thus attempt to win
different awards.
[0037] Referring back to the illustrated example, as seen in FIG.
2E, for the next play of the game following the next occurrence of
a moving symbol display window game triggering event, the gaming
system enables the player to input another direction of movement
(i.e., down and to the right 212f) to move the symbol display
window to another location. In this example, the gaming system
provides appropriate messages such as "YOU INDICATED TO MOVE THE
SYMBOL DISPLAY WINDOW DOWN AND TO THE RIGHT" and "WHERE WILL THE
SYMBOL DISPLAY WINDOW STOP?" to the player visually, or through
suitable audio OF audiovisual displays.
[0038] As seen in FIG. 2F, in response to the player's inputted
direction of movement (coupled with the gaming system's random
determination of a distance to the move the symbol display window),
the gaming system moved the symbol display window from the moved-to
position from the previous play of the game to another location
(relative to the symbol matrix). As also seen in FIG. 2F, the
gaming system determined that the symbols of the matrix displayed
at the symbol display window positions of the moved symbol display
window are not associated with any awards and thus this play of the
game ends. In this example, the gaming system provides appropriate
messages such as "NOW THAT THE SYMBOL DISPLAY WINDOW HAS STOPPED
MOVING IT IS TIME TO EVALUATE THE SYMBOLS CURRENTLY DISPLAYED IN
THE SYMBOL DISPLAY WINDOW" and "THE SYMBOL DISPLAY WINDOW DID NOT
SHOW ANY WINNING SYMBOL COMBINATIONS. BETTER LUCK NEXT TIME" To the
player visually, or through suitable audio or audiovisual
displays.
[0039] Continuing on with this example, seen in FIG. 2G, for the
next play of the game following the next occurrence of a moving
symbol display window game triggering event, the gaming system
enables the player to input another direction of movement (i.e., up
212c) to move the symbol display window to another location. In
this example, the gaming system provides appropriate messages such
as "YOU INDICATED TO MOVE THE SYMBOL DISPLAY WINDOW UP" and "WHERE
WILL THE SYMBOL DISPLAY WINDOW STOP?" to the player visually, or
through suitable audio or audiovisual displays.
[0040] As seen in FIG. 2H, in response to the player's inputted
direction of movement (coupled with the gaming system's random
determination of a distance to the move the symbol display window),
the gaming system moved the symbol display window from the moved-to
position from the previous play of the game to another location
(relative to the symbol matrix). As also seen in FIG. 2G, following
the movement of the symbol display window, the gaming system
determines that the cherry symbol-cherry symbol-cherry
symbol-cherry symbol combination currently displayed at symbol
display window positions 210f-210g-210h-210i of the symbol display
window 208 are associated with an award of eight-hundred credits.
Accordingly, the gaming system displays the award of eight-hundred
to the player and awaits for another play of the moving symbol
display window game. In this example, the gaming system provides
appropriate messages such as "THE FOUR CHERRY SYMBOLS ARE
ASSOCIATED WITH AN AWARD OF 800" and "NICE WIN" to the player
visually, or through suitable audio or audiovisual displays.
[0041] In one embodiment, for each play (or each of a plurality of
plays) of the moving symbol display window game, the gaming system
generates a plurality of symbols and displays such generated
symbols at the symbol display positions of the symbol matrix. In
another embodiment, as mentioned above, the symbol matrix includes
an ongoing symbol matrix whereon one or more symbols persist or
carry-over from one play of the moving symbol display window game
to another play of the moving symbol display window game. In one
embodiment, each of the symbols of the symbol matrix persist until
such symbols are removed from the symbol matrix. In different
embodiments, one or more symbols are removed from the symbol matrix
based on: (i) such symbols being part of a winning symbol
combination, (ii) such symbols being displayed at a symbol display
window position of a symbol display window, (iii) such symbols
being displayed at a symbol display window position of a symbol
display window after a winning symbol combination is generated,
(iv) such symbols being temporarily displayed at a symbol display
window position of a symbol display window (i.e., the symbol
display window removes symbols of the symbol matrix in its path),
and (v) such symbols moving off of the portion of the symbol matrix
displayed to the player (i.e., the movement of the symbol display
window causes the symbols of the displayed portion of the symbol
matrix to be no longer displayed to the player wherein when that
portion of the symbol matrix is later displayed to the player, that
portion of the symbol matrix includes different symbols).
[0042] In one such embodiment employing an ongoing symbol matrix, a
symbol is removed from the symbol matrix upon that symbol expiring.
In this embodiment, one or more of the symbols of the symbol matrix
has a finite life span. In one embodiment, the life span of a
symbol is measured by the passage of time. In this embodiment,
after a predetermined amount of time has passed, the symbol expires
and the gaming system replaces that expired symbol with another
symbol. In another embodiment, the symbols expire after a
predetermined number of plays of the moving symbol display window
game. In different embodiments, different symbol display positions
of the symbol matrix (and/or different symbols) are associated with
different probabilities of changing or modifying the symbol
displayed at that symbol display position. In one such embodiment,
different areas of symbol display positions of the symbol matrix
are associated with different probabilities of changing or
modifying the symbols displayed at such symbol display positions.
In another embodiment employing an ongoing symbol matrix, as
described below, a symbol is removed from the symbol matrix upon
that symbol being part of a winning symbol combination.
[0043] In another embodiment, as seen in FIGS. 2A to 2H, the gaming
system displays one or more of the symbols of the symbol display
positions of the symbol matrix which are not also displayed at a
corresponding symbol display window position of the symbol display
window. In another embodiment, the gaming system partially displays
one or more of the symbols of the symbol display positions of the
symbol matrix which are not also displayed at a corresponding
symbol display window position of the symbol display window. In
different examples, the gaming system displays such symbols as if
the player were seeing such symbol through rough water, through
irregular glass or based on a spatial-time distortion. In another
embodiment, the gaming system masks (or otherwise does not display)
one or more of the symbols of the symbol display positions of the
symbol matrix which are not also displayed at a corresponding
symbol display window position of the symbol display window. Such a
configuration provides that the structure of the symbol matrix and
the symbols at the different symbol display positions are unknown
until such symbols come into view of the symbol display window.
[0044] In one embodiment, as also seen in FIGS. 2A to 2H, the
gaming system displays: (i) the symbol display window in the
foreground, and (ii) the symbol matrix in the background. For
example, the gaming system displays the symbols in the symbol
display positions of the symbol matrix as a first size and further
displays the symbols in the symbol display window positions of the
symbol display window as a second, greater size (i.e., the gaming
system appears to magnify the display of the symbols in the symbol
display window). In this example, the gaming system magnifies the
symbols of the symbol display window by displaying the symbols of
the symbol display positions of the symbol matrix (which are not
currently displayed in the symbol display window positions of the
symbol display window) and the symbols currently displayed in the
symbol display window positions of the symbol display window as
different sized symbols. In another embodiment, the gaming system
displays the symbols of the symbol display positions of the symbol
matrix (which are not currently displayed in the symbol display
window positions of the symbol display window) and the symbols
currently displayed in the symbol display window positions of the
symbol display window as the same sized symbols.
[0045] In one embodiment, as described above, upon an occurrence of
the moving symbol display window game triggering event, the gaming
system provides the player one move of the symbol display window
for the play of the triggered moving symbol display game. In
another embodiment, upon an occurrence of the moving symbol display
window game triggering event, the gaming system provides the player
a plurality of moves of the symbol display window for the play of
the triggered moving symbol display game.
[0046] In one embodiment, the gaming system enables the player to
input a direction of movement corresponding to any point of a
compass. In another embodiment, the gaming system enables the
player to input one of a plurality of predefined directions of
movement. In one embodiment, the available directions of movements
remain the same for a plurality of (or each) play of the moving
symbol display window game. This embodiment enables a player to
move the symbol display window back and forth over multiple plays
of the game over the same set of symbols of the symbol matrix to
try and repeatedly win the same award associated with the same
symbol combinations. In another embodiment, to inhibit the
above-described backtracking movements, the gaming system varies
the available directions of movement for different plays of the
moving symbol display window game.
[0047] In another embodiment, the gaming system moves the symbol
display window (relative to the symbol matrix) to a randomly
determined location of the symbol matrix. In another embodiment,
the gaming system enables a player to input a distance of movement
of the symbol display window and the gaming system moves the symbol
display window the player inputted distance to a location of the
symbol matrix based on a randomly determined direction. By enabling
the player to at least partially affect the movement of the symbol
display window, such embodiments employ an element of skill or
strategy in playing the game. In another embodiment, the gaming
system enables the player to make an input to move the symbol
display window to a randomly determined location.
[0048] In another embodiment, the gaming system moves the symbol
display window along a path or trail over multiple plays of the
moving symbol display window game. In another embodiment, the
symbol matrix includes a path or trail and the gaming system
enables the player to decide whether to move the symbol display
window along the path or to move the symbol display window to a
different location.
[0049] In another embodiment, rather than displaying the symbol
display window moving (relative to the symbol matrix), the gaming
system displays the symbol display window located at different
locations (relative to the symbol matrix). In one such embodiment,
the gaming system displays the symbol display window at a first
location and then displays the symbol display window at a second,
different location (i.e., the gaming system displays the symbol
display window popping to different locations relative to the
symbol matrix). In one embodiment, the gaming system enables the
player to make one or more inputs to stop the symbol display window
at a current location.
[0050] In one embodiment, as seen in FIGS. 2A to 2H, the gaming
system moves the symbol display window relative to the symbol
matrix. That is, the gaming system keeps the position or location
of the symbol matrix static and moves the location of the symbol
display window. In another embodiment, the gaming system moves the
symbol matrix relative to the symbol display window. That is, the
gaming system keeps the position or location of the symbol display
window static and moves the location of the symbol matrix. In
another embodiment, the gaming system moves: (i) the symbol matrix
relative to the symbol display window, and (ii) the symbol display
window relative to the symbol matrix.
[0051] In another embodiment, for one or more of the moving symbol
display window games disclosed herein, the gaming system employs a
plurality of symbol display windows in association with the play of
the moving symbol display window game. In one such embodiment, if
an additional symbol display window event occurs, the gaming system
adds one or more symbol display windows in association with the
symbol matrix. In this embodiment, the gaming system provides one
or more additional symbol display windows as a bonus for the
player.
[0052] In another embodiment, for one or more of the moving symbol
display window games disclosed herein employing a plurality of
symbol display windows, different symbol display windows are
associated with different attributes or characteristics. In one
such embodiment, the different symbol display windows are
associated with different modifiers of any awards associated with
the symbols displayed by that symbol display window. In one such
embodiment, different symbol display windows move throughout the
symbol matrix in different directions. For example, different
symbol display windows (which are associated with different
modifiers) move in different directions wherein the gaming system
provides an award to the first symbol display window to display a
symbol of a symbol display position of the symbol matrix (while the
gaming system does not provide any awards for any subsequent symbol
display windows that display the same symbol at the same symbol
display position). In another such embodiment, the different symbol
display windows are associated with different abilities to move
from symbol display position to symbol display position.
[0053] In one embodiment, for one or more of the moving symbol
display window games disclosed herein, the quantity of symbol
display windows moving to the symbol display positions of the
symbol matrix determine one or more aspect of the moving symbol
display window game. In one such embodiment, a moving symbol
display window game played with one symbol display window is
associated with a higher volatility than a moving symbol display
window game played with a plurality of symbol display windows.
[0054] In another such embodiment employing a plurality of symbol
display windows, the plurality of symbol display windows are
associated with the same player wherein such symbol display windows
each display symbols for the player. In this embodiment, the gaming
system evaluates the symbols of the symbol matrix displayed at the
symbol display window positions of a plurality of (or each of) the
plurality of symbol display windows to determine any awards for the
player. For example, each symbol display window includes one symbol
display window position wherein the gaming system evaluates the
combination of symbols displayed at the symbol display window
position for a plurality of the symbol display windows to determine
if any of such displayed symbols form any winning symbol
combinations.
[0055] In another such embodiment employing a plurality of symbol
display windows, the plurality of symbol display windows are
associated with a plurality of different players. In various
embodiments, the gaming system disclosed herein enables a plurality
of players to simultaneously, overlapping or concurrently utilize
the ongoing symbol matrix. In one such embodiment, the gaming
system associates each of the players with an individual symbol
display window and further moves each player's individual symbol
display window to different locations to display different symbols
for award evaluations. In one such embodiment, the plurality of
symbol display windows associated with the plurality of players
cooperate to display symbols which are evaluated for each of the
players. In this embodiment, the gaming system determines an award
for each of the players based on the symbols displayed by any of
the symbol display windows (i.e., the moving symbol display window
game is a cooperative community game). In another such embodiment,
if two or more symbol display windows move to the same symbol
display position of the symbol matrix at the same time (i.e., two
or more symbol display windows overlap), the gaming system applies
a modifier to any awards associated with any winning symbol
combinations displayed in one or both of the symbol display
windows.
[0056] In another embodiment, for one or more of the moving symbol
display window games disclosed herein, the plurality of symbol
display windows associated with the plurality of players compete to
display symbols. In this embodiment, the gaming system determines
an award for each of the players based on the individual symbols
displayed by that player's symbol display window(s) (i.e., the
moving symbol display window game is a competitive community
game).
[0057] In another embodiment, for one or more of the moving symbol
display window games disclosed herein, the gaming system generates
a symbol at each of the symbol display positions. In another
embodiment, the gaming system generates a symbol at a plurality of
the symbol display positions. In another embodiment, for one or
more of the moving symbol display window games disclosed herein,
the gaming system generates a plurality of symbols (at one or more
of the symbol display positions. In this embodiment, if a symbol
display window displays the symbols of this symbol display
position, the gaming system evaluates one, more or each of the
plurality of symbols at that symbol display position for any
awards.
[0058] In one embodiment, the gaming system evaluates the symbols
displayed at the symbol display window positions of the symbol
display window based on a payline evaluation. In another
embodiment, the gaming system evaluates the symbols displayed at
the symbol display window positions of the symbol display window
based on a ways to win evaluation. In another embodiment, the
gaming system evaluates the symbols displayed at the symbol display
window positions of the symbol display window based on a scatter
pay evaluation. In another embodiment, the gaming system evaluates
the symbols displayed at the symbol display window positions of the
symbol display window based on a connected lines evaluation.
[0059] In another embodiment, the gaming system associates one or
more of the symbols of the symbol matrix with one or more different
values. In this embodiment, the gaming system determines a total
award for the player based on one or more of the values associated
with the symbols which are displayed in the symbol display window
positions of the symbol display window. In another embodiment, one
or more of the symbols of the symbol matrix are playing cards. In
this embodiment, the gaming system determines a total award for the
player based on if any of the playing cards which are displayed in
the symbol display window positions of the symbol display window
for any winning playing card hands. In different embodiments, the
symbols associated with one or more of the symbol display positions
are associated with or otherwise correspond to one or more of:
credit amounts, modifiers (e.g., multipliers), physical prizes,
free spins, progressive awards, values, virtual goods associated
with the gaming system, virtual goods not associated with the
gaming system, a play of any suitable slot game, a play of any
suitable free spins or free activations game, a play of any
suitable wheel game, a play of any suitable card game, a play of
any suitable offer and acceptance game, a play of any suitable
award ladder game, a play of any suitable puzzle-type game, a play
of any suitable persistence game, a play of any suitable selection
game, a play of any suitable cascading symbols game, a play of any
suitable ways to win game, a play of any suitable scatter pay game,
a play of any suitable coin-pusher game, a play of any suitable
elimination game, a play of any suitable stacked wilds game, a play
of any suitable trail game, a play of any suitable bingo game, a
play of any suitable video scratch-off game, a play of any suitable
pick-until-complete game, a play of any suitable shooting
simulation game, a play of any suitable racing game, a play of any
suitable promotional game, a play of any suitable high-low game, a
play of any suitable lottery game, a play of any suitable number
selection game, a play of any suitable dice game, a play of any
suitable skill game, a play of any suitable auction game, a play of
any suitable reverse-auction game, a play of any suitable group
game or a play of any other suitable type of game.
[0060] In another embodiment, the gaming system employs a cascading
or tumbling symbols feature to the moving symbol display window
game. In this embodiment, the gaming system determines whether any
winning symbol combinations are displayed in the symbol display
window positions of the symbol display window as described above.
If no winning symbol combinations are displayed, the gaming system
ends the play of the game and awaits for another moving symbol
display window game triggering event. In one embodiment, if the
gaming system determines that at least one winning symbol
combination is displayed, the gaming system provides an award to
the player based on that winning symbol combination and removes any
symbols contained in any winning symbol combination displayed by
the symbol display window positions of the symbol display window.
In another embodiment, if the gaming system determines that at
least one winning symbol combination is displayed, the gaming
system provides an award to the player based on that winning symbol
combination and removes one, more or each of the symbols displayed
by the symbol display window positions of the symbol display
window. It should be appreciated that since the symbols displayed
in the symbol display window positions of the symbol display window
are the symbols from the symbol matrix, the removal of any symbols
from the symbol display window positions of the symbol display
window also represent a removal of any symbols from the symbol
display positions of the symbol matrix. It should be further
appreciated that, as described above, such removal of any symbols
provides another avenue by which the gaming system modifies or
changes the symbols of the ongoing symbol matrix.
[0061] Following the removal of any symbols, the gaming system
fills the resulting empty symbol display positions (i.e., both the
symbol display window positions of the symbol display window and
the symbol display positions of the symbol matrix) by shifting
remaining symbols in a suitable direction, such as downward, to
fill the empty symbol positions. Following the shifting, the gaming
system generates one of a plurality of symbols to fill each of any
then-displayed empty symbol positions. After filling each empty
symbol position, the gaming system again determines whether any
winning symbol combinations are displayed in the symbol display
window positions of the symbol display window. If any winning
symbol combinations are displayed, the gaming system provides an
award and repeats the symbol shifting, symbol removal and symbol
generation process as described above. The gaming system repeats
this process until no winning symbol combinations are displayed in
the symbol display window positions of the symbol display
window.
[0062] In another embodiment, for one or more of the moving symbol
display window games disclosed herein, the gaming system utilizes a
moving bonus triggering symbol which moves from symbol display
position to symbol display position of the symbol matrix. In this
embodiment, if the symbol display window moves to a current
location of the moving bonus triggering symbol, the gaming system
triggers a play of one or more bonus games.
[0063] In another embodiment, for one or more of the moving symbol
display window games disclosed herein, the gaming system associates
different bonus games with different areas or portions of the
symbol matrix. In this embodiment, the symbol display positions of
different areas or portions of the symbol matrix display different
bonus game symbols which trigger different bonus games. For
example, a first portion of the symbol matrix is associated with a
first bonus game wherein the symbol display window is located in
this first portion and if a bonus game triggering symbol
combination is displayed at the symbol display window positions of
the symbol display window, the first bonus game is triggered. In
this example, a second, different portion of the symbol matrix is
associated with a second, different bonus game wherein the symbol
display window is located in this second portion and if a bonus
game triggering symbol combination is displayed at the symbol
display window positions of the symbol display window, the second
bonus game is triggered.
[0064] In another embodiment, for one or more of the moving symbol
display window games disclosed herein, the gaming system employs a
plurality of symbol display position matrices for a play of the
moving symbol display window game. In one such embodiment, the
gaming system enables the player to pick which of the plurality of
symbol display position matrices to employ in association with the
play of the moving symbol display window game. In different
embodiments, different symbol display position matrices are
associated with different volatilities (i.e., different types or
ranges of symbols which populate the different symbol display
positions of the matrix and/or different probabilities of
populating such different symbol display positions of the matrix
with such symbols).
[0065] In another embodiment, for one or more of the moving symbol
display window games disclosed herein, the gaming system employs
one or more symbol matrix boundaries or matrix edges which limit
where the symbol display window may move to. In another embodiment,
for one or more of the moving symbol display window games disclosed
herein, the gaming system employs one or more symbol matrix
blockers or obstacles which limit where the symbol display window
may move to within the symbol matrix. In different embodiments,
different symbol display windows have different attributes which
enable certain symbol display windows to move past (or move over)
such boundaries (and/or such obstacles) while other symbol display
windows may not move past (or move over) such boundaries (and/or
such obstacles).
[0066] In another embodiment, upon an occurrence of a moving symbol
display window modification event, the gaming system modifies one
or more features of the symbol display window. In one such
embodiment, upon an occurrence of a moving symbol display window
modification event, the gaming system modifies, such as adds or
subtracts, the quantity of symbol display window positions of the
symbol display window. In another such embodiment, upon an
occurrence of a moving symbol display window modification event,
the gaming system modifies the speed which the symbol display
window moves. In another such embodiment, upon an occurrence of a
moving symbol display window modification event, the gaming system
modifies the directions of movement which the symbol display window
may move.
[0067] In one embodiment, the gaming system modifies any symbol
associated one or more of the displayed positions for a designated
duration. In one such embodiment, one or more of the displayed
positions are associated with modified symbols at different points
in time. For example, the gaming system causes one or more symbols
of the symbol matrix to be wild symbols for a designated duration.
In different embodiments, at certain points in time or in response
to one or more events occurring (either in a play of a primary
game, a play of the moving symbol display window game or
independent of any play of the primary game or any play of the
moving symbol display window game), the symbols associated with one
or more adjacent symbol display positions temporarily have an
increased value or additional symbol features. Such a configuration
provides that the award provided to a player in response to a
movement of the symbol display window is based not only on the
location of the symbol display window but also on if any of the
symbols of the moved-to location are currently associated with an
increased award or additional symbol features.
[0068] In different embodiments, a modification of a symbol lasts
until that symbol is displayed at a symbol display window position
of the symbol display window (or until that symbol is included in a
winning symbol combination). In another embodiment, a modification
of a symbol lasts for a designated period of time or a quantity of
games played. In one embodiment, different symbol display positions
of the symbol matrix are associated with different modifications to
any associated symbols at different points in time. In this
embodiment, the gaming system temporarily associates one set of
symbols of one set of symbol display positions with a first
modification, and temporarily associates another set of symbols at
another set of symbol display positions with a second modification.
In one embodiment, the gaming system indicates to the players which
displayed symbols are temporarily associated with increased awards
(and which displayed symbols are not associated with increased
awards).
[0069] In one embodiment, for one or more of the moving symbol
display window games disclosed herein, the gaming system causes at
least one display device of the player's gaming device to display
any of the moving symbol display window games disclosed herein. In
another embodiment, in addition or in alternative to each gaming
device displaying any of the moving symbol display window games
disclosed herein, the gaming system causes one or more community or
overhead display devices to display part or all of any of the
moving symbol display window games disclosed herein to one or more
other players or bystanders either at a gaming establishment or
viewing over a network, such as the internet.
[0070] In another embodiment, in addition or in alternative to each
gaming device displaying any of the moving symbol display window
games disclosed herein, the gaming system causes one or more
internet sites to each display any of the moving symbol display
window games disclosed herein such that a player is enabled to log
on from a personal web browser. In another such embodiment, the
gaming system enables the player to play one or more primary games
on one device while viewing any of the moving symbol display window
games disclosed herein from another device. For example, the gaming
system enables the player to play one or more primary games on a
mobile phone while viewing the status any of the moving symbol
display window games disclosed herein on a desktop or laptop
computer. In one such embodiment, while in a physical gaming
establishment, the symbol display window moves throughout the
symbol matrix to display one or more symbol combinations associated
with one or more monetary awards. In this embodiment, when the
player is subsequently remote from the physical gaming
establishment and accesses the game, the symbol display window
moves throughout the symbol matrix to display one or more symbol
combinations associated with one or more non-monetary awards. Such
a configuration increases the level of excitement and enjoyment for
certain players as these players experience games which employ the
ongoing symbol matrix regardless of the player's specific
location.
[0071] In another embodiment, as mentioned above, a moving symbol
display window game triggering event occurs, based on an outcome
associated with one or more plays of any primary game and/or an
outcome associated with one or more plays of any secondary game of
the gaming devices in the gaming system. In one embodiment, such
determinations are symbol driven based on the generation of one or
more designated symbols or symbol combinations. In various
embodiments, a generation of a designated symbol (or sub-symbol) or
a designated set of symbols (or sub-symbols) over one or more plays
of a primary game causes a moving symbol display window game
triggering event to occur.
[0072] In another embodiment, as also mentioned above, the gaming
system does not provide any apparent reasons to the players for a
moving symbol display window game triggering event to occur. In
these embodiments, such determinations are not triggered by an
event in a primary game or based specifically on any of the plays
of any primary game or on any of the plays of any secondary game of
the gaming devices in the system. That is, these events occur
without any explanation or alternatively with simple
explanations.
[0073] In one embodiment, a moving symbol display window game
triggering event occurs, based on an amount coin-in. In this
embodiment, the gaming system determines if an amount of coin-in
wagered at one or more gaming devices in the gaming system reaches
or exceeds a designated amount of coin-in (i.e., a threshold
coin-in amount). Upon the amount of coin-in wagered at one or more
gaming devices in the gaming system reaching or exceeding the bonus
threshold coin-in amount, the gaming system causes one or more of
such events or conditions to occur. In different embodiments, the
threshold coin-in amount is predetermined, randomly determined,
determined based on a player's status (such as determined through a
player tracking system), determined based on a generated symbol or
symbol combination, determined based on a random determination by
the central controller, determined based on a random determination
at the gaming device, determined based on one or more side wagers
placed, determined based on the player's primary game wager,
determined based on time (such as the time of day) or determined
based on any other suitable method or criteria.
[0074] In another alternative embodiment, a moving symbol display
window game triggering event occurs, based on an amount coin-out.
In this embodiment, the gaming system determines if an amount of
coin-out provided by one or more gaming devices in the gaming
system reaches or exceeds a designated amount of coin-out (i.e., a
threshold coin-out amount). Upon the amount of coin-out provided at
one or more gaming devices in the gaming system reaching or
exceeding the threshold coin-out amount, the gaming system causes
one or more of such events or conditions to occur. In different
embodiments, the threshold coin-out amount is predetermined,
randomly determined, determined based on a player's status (such as
determined through a player tracking system), determined based on a
generated symbol or symbol combination, determined based on a
random determination by the central controller, determined based on
a random determination at the gaming device, determined based on
one or more side wagers placed, determined based on the player's
primary game wager, determined based on time (such as the time of
day) or determined based on any other suitable method or
criteria.
[0075] In another alternative embodiment, a moving symbol display
window game triggering event occurs, based on a predefined variable
reaching a defined parameter threshold. For example, when the
500,000.sup.th player has played a gaming device of the gaming
system (ascertained from a player tracking system), one or more of
such events or conditions occur. In different embodiments, the
predefined parameter thresholds include a length of time, a length
of time after a certain dollar amount is hit, a wager level
threshold for a specific device (which gaming device is the first
to contribute $250,000), a number of gaming devices active, or any
other parameter that defines a suitable threshold.
[0076] In another alternative embodiment, a moving symbol display
window game triggering event occurs, based on a quantity of games
played. In this embodiment, a quantity of games played is set for
when one or more of such events or conditions will occur. In one
embodiment, such a set quantity of games played is based on
historic data.
[0077] In another alternative embodiment, a moving symbol display
window game triggering event occurs, based on time. In this
embodiment, a time is set for when one or more of such events or
conditions will occur. In one embodiment, such a set time is based
on historic data.
[0078] In another alternative embodiment, a moving symbol display
window game triggering event occurs, based upon gaming system
operator defined player eligibility parameters stored on a player
tracking system (such as via a player tracking card or other
suitable manner). In this embodiment, the parameters for
eligibility are defined by the gaming system operator based on any
suitable criterion. In one embodiment, the gaming system recognizes
the player's identification (via the player tracking system) when
the player inserts or otherwise associates their player tracking
card in the gaming device. The gaming system determines the player
tracking level of the player and if the current player tracking
level defined by the gaming system operator is eligible for one or
more of such events or conditions. In one embodiment, the gaming
system operator defines minimum bet levels required for such events
or conditions to occur based on the player's card level.
[0079] In another alternative embodiment, a moving symbol display
window game triggering event occurs, based on a system
determination, including one or more random selections by the
central controller. In one embodiment, as described above, the
central controller tracks all active gaming devices and the wagers
they placed. In one such embodiment, based on the gaming device's
state as well as one or more wager pools associated with the gaming
device, the central controller determines whether to one or more of
such events or conditions will occur. In one such embodiment, the
player who consistently places a higher wager is more likely to be
associated with an occurrence of one or more of such events or
conditions than a player who consistently places a minimum wager.
It should be appreciated that the criteria for determining whether
a player is in active status or inactive status for determining if
one or more of such events occur may the same as, substantially the
same as, or different than the criteria for determining whether a
player is in active status or inactive status for another one of
such events to occur.
[0080] In another alternative embodiment, a moving symbol display
window game triggering event occurs, based on a determination of if
any numbers allotted to a gaming device match a randomly selected
number. In this embodiment, upon or prior to each play of each
gaming device, a gaming device selects a random number from a range
of numbers and during each primary game, the gaming device
allocates the first N numbers in the range, where N is the number
of credits bet by the player in that primary game. At the end of
the primary game, the randomly selected number is compared with the
numbers allocated to the player and if a match occurs, one or more
of such events or conditions occur. It should be appreciated that
any suitable manner of causing a moving symbol display window game
triggering event to occur may be implemented in accordance with the
gaming system and method disclosed herein.
[0081] It should be appreciated that any of the above-described
moving symbol display window game triggering events may be combined
in one or more different embodiments.
Alternative Embodiments
[0082] It should be appreciated that in different embodiments, one
or more of: [0083] i. a quantity of symbol display positions in a
symbol matrix; [0084] ii. a shape or configuration of the symbol
display matrix; [0085] iii. which of a plurality of different
symbol display matrices to employ; [0086] iv. a quantity of symbol
display windows to employ; [0087] v. a quantity of symbol display
window positions in a symbol display window; [0088] vi. a shape or
configuration of the symbol display window; [0089] vii. an
attribute of one or more symbol display windows; [0090] viii. which
symbol display positions display which symbols; [0091] ix. a
quantity of symbols to associate with a symbol display position;
[0092] x. a direction of movement of the symbol display window;
[0093] xi. a distance of movement of the symbol display window;
[0094] xii. a speed which to move the symbol display window; [0095]
xiii. whether to enable a player to make any inputs to determine a
direction of movement of the symbol display window; [0096] xiv.
whether to enable a player to make any inputs to change the
direction of movement of the symbol display window; [0097] xv.
whether to remove or modify one or more symbols of the symbol
matrix; [0098] xvi. which symbols to remove or modify from the
symbol matrix; [0099] xvii. which symbol display positions to
remove or modify the symbols displayed at such symbol display
positions; [0100] xviii. a duration each symbol remains in the
symbol matrix; [0101] xix. a type of symbol evaluation to employ to
evaluate the symbols displayed at the symbol display window
positions; [0102] xx. whether to employ a cascading symbols
feature; [0103] xxi. a quantity of boundaries to utilize; [0104]
xxii. a quantity of blocking symbols to utilize; [0105] xxiii.
which symbol display positions are associated with blocking
symbols; [0106] xxiv. when a moving symbol display window
modification event occurs; [0107] xxv. when an additional symbol
display window event occurs; [0108] xxvi. any determination
disclosed herein; is/are predetermined, randomly determined,
randomly determined based on one or more weighted percentages,
determined based on a generated symbol or symbol combination,
determined based on a random determination by the central
controller, determined based on a random determination at the
gaming system, determined based on at least one play of at least
one game, determined based on a player's selection, determined
based on one or more side wagers placed, determined based on the
player's primary game wager, determined based on time (such as the
time of day), determined based on an amount of coin-in accumulated
in one or more pools, determined based on a status of the player
(i.e., a player tracking status), or determined based on any other
suitable method or criteria
Gaming Systems
[0109] It should be appreciated that the above-described
embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in
accordance with or in conjunction with one or more of a variety of
different types of gaming systems, such as, but not limited to,
those described below.
[0110] The present disclosure contemplates a variety of different
gaming systems each having one or more of a plurality of different
features, attributes, or characteristics. It should be appreciated
that a "gaming system" as used herein refers to various
configurations of; (a) one or more central servers, central
controllers, or remote hosts; (b) one or more electronic gaming
machines ("EGMs"); and/or (c) one or more personal gaming devices,
such as desktop computers, laptop computers, tablet computers or
computing devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), mobile
telephones such as smart phones, and other mobile computing
devices.
[0111] Thus, in various embodiments, the gaming system of the
present disclosure includes: (a) one or more EGMs in combination
with one or more central servers, central controllers, or remote
hosts; (b) one or more personal gaming devices in combination with
one or more central servers, central controllers, or remote hosts;
(c) one or more personal gaming devices in combination with one or
more EGMs; (d) one or more personal gaming devices, one or more
EGMs, and one or more central servers, central controllers, or
remote hosts in combination with one another; (e) a single EGM; (f)
a plurality of EGMs in combination with one another; (g) a single
personal gaming device; (h) a plurality of personal gaming devices
in combination with one another; (i) a single central server,
central controller, or remote host; and/or (j) a plurality of
central servers, central controllers, or remote hosts in
combination with one another.
[0112] For brevity and clarity, each EGM and each personal gaming
device of the present disclosure is collectively referred herein as
an "EGM." Additionally, for brevity and clarity, unless
specifically stated otherwise, "EGM" as used herein represents one
EGM or a plurality of EGMs, and "central server, central
controller, or remote host" as used herein represents one central
server, central controller, or remote host or a plurality of
central servers, central controllers, or remote hosts.
[0113] As noted above, in various embodiments, the gaming system
includes an EGM in combination with a central server, central
controller, or remote host. In such embodiments, the EGM is
configured to communicate with the central server, central
controller, or remote host through a data network or remote
communication link. In certain such embodiments, the EGM is
configured to communicate with another EGM through the same data
network or remote communication link or through a different data
network or remote communication link. For example, the gaming
system illustrated in FIG. 3A includes a plurality of EGMs 1010
that are each configured to communicate with a central server,
central controller, or remote host 1056 through a data network
1058.
[0114] In certain embodiments in which the gaming system includes
an EGM in combination with a central server, central controller, or
remote host, the central server, central controller, or remote host
is any suitable computing device (such as a server) that includes
at least one processor and at least one memory device or storage
device. As further described herein, the EGM includes at least one
EGM processor configured to transmit and receive data or signals
representing events, messages, commands, or any other suitable
information between the EGM and the central server, central
controller, or remote host. The at least one processor of that EGM
is configured to execute the events, messages, or commands
represented by such data or signals in conjunction with the
operation of the EGM. Moreover, the at least one processor of the
central server, central controller, or remote host is configured to
transmit and receive data or signals representing events, messages,
commands, or any other suitable information between the central
server, central controller, or remote host and the EGM. The at
least one processor of the central server, central controller, or
remote host is configured to execute the events, messages, or
commands represented by such data or signals in conjunction with
the operation of the central server, central controller, or remote
host. It should be appreciated that one, more, or each of the
functions of the central server, central controller, or remote host
may be performed by the at least one processor of the EGM. It
should be further appreciated that one, more, or each of the
functions of the at least one processor of the EGM may be performed
by the at least one processor of the central server, central
controller, or remote host.
[0115] In certain such embodiments, computerized instructions for
controlling any games (such as any primary or base games and/or any
secondary or bonus games) displayed by the EGM are executed by the
central server, central controller, or remote host. In such "thin
client" embodiments, the central server, central controller, or
remote host remotely controls any games (or other suitable
interfaces) displayed by the EGM, and the EGM is utilized to
display such games (or suitable interfaces) and to receive one or
more inputs or commands. In other such embodiments, computerized
instructions for controlling any games displayed by the EGM are
communicated from the central server, central controller, or remote
host to the EGM and are stored in at least one memory device of the
EGM. In such "thick client" embodiments, the at least one processor
of the EGM executes the computerized instructions to control any
games (or other suitable interfaces) displayed by the EGM.
[0116] In various embodiments in which the gaming system includes a
plurality of EGMs, one or more of the EGMs are thin client EGMs and
one or more of the EGMs are thick client EGMs. In other embodiments
in which the gaming system includes one or more EGMs, certain
functions of one or more of the EGMs are implemented in a thin
client environment, and certain other functions of one or more of
the EGMs are implemented in a thick client environment. In one such
embodiment in which the gaming system includes an EGM and a central
server, central controller, or remote host, computerized
instructions for controlling any primary or base games displayed by
the EGM are communicated from the central server, central
controller, or remote host to the EGM in a thick client
configuration, and computerized instructions for controlling any
secondary or bonus games or other functions displayed by the EGM
are executed by the central server, central controller, or remote
host in a thin client configuration.
[0117] In certain embodiments in which the gaming system includes:
(a) an EGM configured to communicate with a central server, central
controller, or remote host through a data network; and/or (b) a
plurality of EGMs configured to communicate with one another
through a data network, the data network is a local area network
(LAN) in which the EGMs are located substantially proximate to one
another and/or the central server, central controller, or remote
host. In one example, the EGMs and the central server, central
controller, or remote host are located in a gaming establishment or
a portion of a gaming establishment.
[0118] In other embodiments in which the gaming system includes:
(a) an EGM configured to communicate with a central server, central
controller, or remote host through a data network; and/or (b) a
plurality of EGMs configured to communicate with one another
through a data network, the data network is a wide area network
(WAN) in which one or more of the EGMs are not necessarily located
substantially proximate to another one of the EGMs and/or the
central server, central controller, or remote host. For example,
one or more of the EGMs are located: (a) in an area of a gaming
establishment different from an area of the gaming establishment in
which the central server, central controller, or remote host is
located; or (b) in a gaming establishment different from the gaming
establishment in which the central server, central controller, or
remote host is located. In another example, the central server,
central controller, or remote host is not located within a gaming
establishment in which the EGMs are located. It should be
appreciated that in certain embodiments in which the data network
is a WAN, the gaming system includes a central server, central
controller, or remote host and an EGM each located in a different
gaming establishment in a same geographic area, such as a same city
or a same state. It should be appreciated that gaming systems in
which the data network is a WAN are substantially identical to
gaming systems in which the data network is a LAN, though the
quantity of EGMs in such gaming systems may vary relative to one
another.
[0119] In further embodiments in which the gaming system includes:
(a) an EGM configured to communicate with a central server, central
controller, or remote host through a data network; and/or (b) a
plurality of EGMs configured to communicate with one another
through a data network, the data network is an internet or an
intranet. In certain such embodiments, an internet browser of the
EGM is usable to access an internet game page from any location
where an internet connection is available. In one such embodiment,
after the internet game page is accessed, the central server,
central controller, or remote host identifies a player prior to
enabling that player to place any wagers on any plays of any
wagering games. In one example, the central server, central
controller, or remote host identifies the player by requiring a
player account of the player to be logged into via an input of a
unique username and password combination assigned to the player. It
should be appreciated, however, that the central server, central
controller, or remote host may identify the player in any other
suitable manner, such as by validating a player tracking
identification number associated with the player; by reading a
player tracking card or other smart card inserted into a card
reader (as described below); by validating a unique player
identification number associated with the player by the central
server, central controller, or remote host; or by identifying the
EGM, such as by identifying the MAC address or the IP address of
the internet facilitator. In various embodiments, once the central
server, central controller, or remote host identifies the player,
the central server, central controller, or remote host enables
placement of one or more wagers on one or more plays of one or more
primary or base games and/or one or more secondary or bonus games,
and displays those plays via the internet browser of the EGM.
[0120] It should be appreciated that the central server, central
server, or remote host and the EGM are configured to connect to the
data network or remote communications link in any suitable manner.
In various embodiments, such a connection is accomplished via: a
conventional phone line or other data transmission line, a digital
subscriber line (DSL), a T-1 line, a coaxial cable, a fiber optic
cable, a wireless or wired routing device, a mobile communications
network connection (such as a cellular network or mobile internet
network), or any other suitable medium. It should be appreciated
that the expansion in the quantity of computing devices and the
quantity and speed of internet connections in recent years
increases opportunities for players to use a variety of EGMs to
play games from an ever-increasing quantity of remote sites. It
should also be appreciated that the enhanced bandwidth of digital
wireless communications may render such technology suitable for
some or all communications, particularly if such communications are
encrypted. Higher data transmission speeds may be useful for
enhancing the sophistication and response of the display and
interaction with players.
EGM Components
[0121] In various embodiments, an EGM includes at least one
processor configured to operate with at least one memory device, at
least one input device, and at least one output device. The at
least one processor may be any suitable processing device or set of
processing devices, such as a microprocessor, a
microcontroller-based platform, a suitable integrated circuit, or
one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). FIG.
3B illustrates an example EGM including a processor 1012.
[0122] As generally noted above, the at least one processor of the
EGM is configured to communicate with, configured to access, and
configured to exchange signals with at least one memory device or
data storage device. In various embodiments, the at least one
memory device of the EGM includes random access memory (RAM), which
can include non-volatile RAM (NVRAM), magnetic RAM (MRAM),
ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM), and other forms as commonly understood
in the gaming industry. In other embodiments, the at least one
memory device includes read only memory (ROM). In certain
embodiments, the at least one memory device of the EGM includes
flash memory and/or EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read
only memory). The example EGM illustrated in FIG. 3B includes a
memory device 1014. It should be appreciated that any other
suitable magnetic, optical, and/or semiconductor memory may operate
in conjunction with the EGM disclosed herein. In certain
embodiments, the at least one processor of the EGM and the at least
one memory device of the EGM both reside within a cabinet of the
EGM (as described below). In other embodiments, at least one of the
at least one processor of the EGM and the at least one memory
device of the EGM reside outside the cabinet of the EGM (as
described below).
[0123] In certain embodiments, as generally described above, the at
least one memory device of the EGM stores program code and
instructions executable by the at least one processor of the EGM to
control the EGM. The at least one memory device of the EGM also
stores other operating data, such as image data, event data, input
data, random number generators (RNGs) or pseudo-RNGs, paytable data
or information, and/or applicable game rules that relate to the
play of one or more games on the EGM (such as primary or base games
and/or secondary or bonus games as described below). In various
embodiments, part or all of the program code and/or the operating
data described above is stored in at least one detachable or
removable memory device including, but not limited to, a cartridge,
a disk, a CD ROM, a DVD, a USB memory device, or any other suitable
non-transitory computer readable medium. In certain such
embodiments, an operator (such as a gaming establishment operator)
and/or a player uses such a removable memory device in an EGM to
implement at least part of the present disclosure. In other
embodiments, part or all of the program code and/or the operating
data is downloaded to the at least one memory device of the EGM
through any suitable data network described above (such as an
internet or intranet).
[0124] In various embodiments, the EGM includes one or more input
devices. The input devices may include any suitable device that
enables an input signal to be produced and received by the at least
one processor of the EGM. The example EGM illustrated in FIG. 3B
includes at least one input device 1030. One input device of the
EGM is a payment device configured to communicate with the at least
one processor of the EGM to fund the EGM. In certain embodiments,
the payment device includes one or more of: (a) a bill acceptor
into which paper money is inserted to fund the EGM; (b) a ticket
acceptor into which a ticket or a voucher is inserted to fund the
EGM; (c) a coin slot into which coins or tokens are inserted to
fund the EGM; (d) a reader or a validator for credit cards, debit
cards, or credit slips into which a credit card, debit card, or
credit slip is inserted to fund the EGM; (e) a player
identification card reader into which a player identification card
is inserted to fund the EGM; or (f) any suitable combination
thereof. FIGS. 4A and 43 illustrate example EGMs that each include
the following payment devices: (a) a combined bill and ticket
acceptor 1128, and (b) a coin slot 1126.
[0125] In one embodiment, the EGM includes a payment device
configured to enable the EGM to be funded via an electronic funds
transfer, such as a transfer of funds from a bank account. In
another embodiment, the EGM includes a payment device configured to
communicate with a mobile device of a player, such as a cell phone,
a radio frequency identification tag, or any other suitable wired
or wireless device, to retrieve relevant information associated
with that player to fund the EGM. It should be appreciated that
when the EGM is funded, the at least one processor determines the
amount of funds entered and displays the corresponding amount on a
credit display or any other suitable display as described
below.
[0126] In various embodiments, one or more input devices of the EGM
are one or more game play activation devices that are each used to
initiate a play of a game on the EGM or a sequence of events
associated with the EGM following appropriate funding of the EGM.
The example EGMs illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B each include a game
play activation device in the form of a game play initiation button
32. It should be appreciated that, in other embodiments, the EGM
begins game play automatically upon appropriate funding rather than
upon utilization of the game play activation device.
[0127] In certain embodiments, one or more input devices of the EGM
are one or more wagering or betting devices. One such wagering or
betting device is as a maximum wagering or betting device that,
when utilized, causes a maximum wager to be placed. Another such
wagering or betting device is a repeat the bet device that, when
utilized, causes the previously-placed wager to be placed. A
further such wagering or betting device is a bet one device. A bet
is placed upon utilization of the bet one device. The bet is
increased by one credit each time the bet one device is utilized.
Upon the utilization of the bet one device, a quantity of credits
shown in a credit display (as described below) decreases by one,
and a number of credits shown in a bet display (as described below)
increases by one. It should be appreciated that while the player's
credit balance, the player's wager, and any awards are displayed as
an amount of monetary credits or currency in the embodiments
described herein, one or more of such players credit balance, such
player's wager, and any awards provided to such player may be for
non-monetary credits, promotional credits, and/or player tracking
points or credits.
[0128] In other embodiments, one input device of the EGM is a cash
out device. The cash out device is utilized to receive a cash
payment or any other suitable form of payment corresponding to a
quantity of remaining credits of a credit display (as described
below). The example EGMs illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B each
include a cash out device in the form of a cash out button
1134.
[0129] In certain embodiments, one input device of the EGM is a
touch-screen coupled to a touch-screen controller or other
touch-sensitive display overlay to enable interaction with any
images displayed on a display device (as described below). One such
input device is a conventional touch-screen button panel. The
touch-screen and the touch-screen controller are connected to a
video controller. In these embodiments, signals are input to the
EGM by touching the touch screen at the appropriate locations.
[0130] In various embodiments, one input device of the EGM is a
sensor, such as a camera, in communication with the at least one
processor of the EGM (and controlled by the at least one processor
of the EGM in some embodiments) and configured to acquire an image
or a video of a player using the EGM and/or an image or a video of
an area surrounding the EGM.
[0131] In embodiments including a player tracking system, as
further described below, one input device of the EGM is a card
reader in communication with the at least one processor of the EGM.
The example EGMs illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B each include a card
reader 1138. The card reader is configured to read a player
identification card inserted into the card reader.
[0132] In various embodiments, the EGM includes one or more output
devices. The example EGM illustrated in FIG. 3B includes at least
one output device 1060. One or more output devices of the EGM are
one or more display devices configured to display any game(s)
displayed by the EGM and any suitable information associated with
such game(s). In certain embodiments, the display devices are
connected to or mounted on a cabinet of the EGM (as described
below). In various embodiments, the display devices serves as
digital glass configured to advertise certain games or other
aspects of the gaming establishment in which the EGM is located. In
various embodiments, the EGM includes one or more of the following
display devices: (a) a central display device; (b) a player
tracking display configured to display various information
regarding a player's player tracking status (as described below);
(c) a secondary or upper display device in addition to the central
display device and the player tracking display; (d) a credit
display configured to display a current quantity of credits, amount
of cash, account balance, or the equivalent; and (e) a bet display
configured to display an amount wagered for one or more plays of
one or more games. The example EGM illustrated in FIG. 4A includes
a central display device 1116, a player tracking display 1140, a
credit display 1120, and a bet display 1122. The example EGM
illustrated in FIG. 4B includes a central display device 1116, an
upper display device 1118, a player tracking display 1140, a player
tracking display 1140, a credit display 1120, and a bet display
1122.
[0133] In various embodiments, the display devices include, without
limitation: a monitor, a television display, a plasma display, a
liquid crystal display (LCD), a display based on light emitting
diodes (LEDs), a display based on a plurality of organic
light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), a display based on polymer
light-emitting diodes (PLEDs), a display based on a plurality of
surface-conduction electron-emitters (SEDs), a display including a
projected and/or reflected image, or any other suitable electronic
device or display mechanism. In certain embodiments, as described
above, the display device includes a touch-screen with an
associated touch-screen controller. It should be appreciated that
the display devices may be of any suitable sizes, shapes, and
configurations.
[0134] The display devices of the EGM are configured to display one
or more game and/or non-game images, symbols, and indicia. In
certain embodiments, the display devices of the EGM are configured
to display any suitable visual representation or exhibition of the
movement of objects; dynamic lighting; video images; images of
people, characters, places, things, and faces of cards; and the
like. In certain embodiments, the display devices of the EGM are
configured to display one or more video reels, one or more video
wheels, and/or one or more video dice. In other embodiments,
certain of the displayed images, symbols, and indicia are in
mechanical form. That is, in these embodiments, the display device
includes any electromechanical device, such as one or more
rotatable wheels, one or more reels, and/or one or more dice,
configured to display at least one or a plurality of game or other
suitable images, symbols, or indicia.
[0135] In various embodiments, one output device of the EGM is a
payout device. In these embodiments, when the cash out device is
utilized as described above, the payout device causes a payout to
be provided to the player. In one embodiment, the payout device is
one or more of: (a) a ticket generator configured to generate and
provide a ticket or credit slip representing a payout, wherein the
ticket or credit slip may be redeemed via a cashier, a kiosk, or
other suitable redemption system: (b) a note generator configured
to provide paper currency; (c) a coin generator configured to
provide coins or tokens in a coin payout tray; and (d) any suitable
combination thereof. The example EGMs illustrated in FIGS. 4A and
4B each include ticket generator 1136. In one embodiment, the EGM
includes a payout device configured to fund an electronically
recordable identification card or smart card or a bank account via
an electronic funds transfer.
[0136] In certain embodiments, one output device of the EGM is a
sound generating device controlled by one or more sound cards. In
one such embodiment, the sound generating device includes one or
more speakers or other sound generating hardware and/or software
for generating sounds, such as by playing music for any games or by
playing music for other modes of the EGM, such as an attract mode.
The example EGMs illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B each include a
plurality of speakers 1150. In another such embodiment, the EGM
provides dynamic sounds coupled with attractive multimedia images
displayed on one or more of the display devices to provide an
audio-visual representation or to otherwise display full-motion
video with sound to attract players to the EGM. In certain
embodiments, the EGM displays a sequence of audio and/or visual
attraction messages during idle periods to attract potential
players to the EGM. The videos may be customized to provide any
appropriate information.
[0137] In various embodiments, the EGM includes a plurality of
communication ports configured to enable the at least one processor
of the EGM to communicate with and to operate with external
peripherals, such as: accelerometers, arcade sticks, bar code
readers, bill validators, biometric input devices, bonus devices,
button panels, card readers, coin dispensers, coin hoppers, display
screens or other displays or video sources, expansion buses,
information panels, keypads, lights, mass storage devices,
microphones, motion sensors, motors, printers, reels, SCSI ports,
solenoids, speakers, thumbsticks, ticket readers, touch screens,
trackballs, touchpads, wheels, and wireless communication devices.
At least U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0254014
describes a variety of EGMs including one or more communication
ports that enable the EGMs to communicate and operate with one or
more external peripherals.
[0138] As generally described above, in certain embodiments, such
as the example EGMs illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the EGM has a
support structure, housing, or cabinet that provides support for a
plurality of the input device and the output devices of the EGM.
Further, the EGM is configured such that a player may operate it
while standing or sitting. In various embodiments, the EGM is
positioned on a base or stand, or is configured as a pub-style
tabletop game (not shown) that a player may operate typically while
sitting. As illustrated by the different example EGMs shown in
FIGS. 4A and 4B, EGMs may have varying cabinet and display
configurations.
[0139] It should be appreciated that, in certain embodiments, the
EGM is a device that has obtained approval from a regulatory gaming
commission, and in other embodiments, the EGM is a device that has
not obtained approval from a regulatory gaming commission.
[0140] As explained above, for brevity and clarity, both the EGMs
and the personal gaming devices of the present disclosure are
collectively referred to herein as "EGMs." Accordingly, it should
be appreciated that certain of the example EGMs described above
include certain elements that may not be included in all EGMs. For
example, the payment device of a personal gaming device such as a
mobile telephone may not include a coin acceptor, while in certain
instances the payment device of an EGM located in a gaming
establishment may include a coin acceptor.
Operation of Primary or Base Games and/or Secondary or Bonus
Games
[0141] In various embodiments, an EGM may be implemented in one of
a variety of different configurations. In various embodiments, the
EGM may be implemented as one of: (a) a dedicated EGM wherein
computerized game programs executable by the EGM for controlling
any primary or base games (referred to herein as "primary games")
and/or any secondary or bonus games or other functions (referred to
herein as "secondary games") displayed by the EGM are provided with
the EGM prior to delivery to a gaming establishment or prior to
being provided to a player: and (b) a changeable EGM wherein
computerized game programs executable by the EGM for controlling
any primary games and/or secondary games displayed by the EGM are
downloadable to the EGM through a data network or remote
communication link after the EGM is physically located in a gaming
establishment or after the EGM is provided to a player.
[0142] As generally explained above, in various embodiments in
which the gaming system includes a central server, central
controller, or remote host and a changeable EGM, the at least one
memory device of the central server, central controller, or remote
host stores different game programs and instructions executable by
the at least one processor of the changeable EGM to control one or
more primary games and/or secondary games displayed by the
changeable EGM. More specifically, each such executable game
program represents a different game or a different type of game
that the at least one changeable EGM is configured to operate. In
one example, certain of the game programs are executable by the
changeable EGM to operate games having the same or substantially
the same game play but different paytables. In different
embodiments, each executable game program is associated with a
primary game, a secondary game, or both. In certain embodiments, an
executable game program is executable by the at least one processor
of the at least one changeable EGM as a secondary game to be played
simultaneously with a play of a primary game (which may be
downloaded to or otherwise stored on the at least one changeable
EGM), or vice versa.
[0143] In operation of such embodiments, the central server,
central controller, or remote host is configured to communicate one
or more of the stored executable game programs to the at least one
processor of the changeable EGM. In different embodiments, a stored
executable game program is communicated or delivered to the at
least one processor of the changeable EGM by: (a) embedding the
executable game program in a device or a component (such as a
microchip to be inserted into the changeable EGM); (b) writing the
executable game program onto a disc or other media; or (c)
uploading or streaming the executable game program over a data
network (such as a dedicated data network). After the executable
game program is communicated from the central server, central
controller, or remote host to the changeable EGM, the at least one
processor of the changeable EGM executes the executable game
program to enable the primary game and/or the secondary game
associated with that executable game program to be played using the
display device(s) and/or the input device(s) of the changeable EGM.
That is, when an executable game program is communicated to the at
least one processor of the changeable EGM, the at least one
processor of the changeable EGM changes the game or the type of
game that may be played using the changeable EGM.
[0144] In certain embodiments, the gaming system randomly
determines any game outcome(s) (such as a win outcome) and/or
award(s) (such as a quantity of credits to award for the win
outcome) for a play of a primary game and/or a play of a secondary
game based on probability data. In certain such embodiments, this
random determination is provided through utilization of an RNG,
such as a true RNG or a pseudo RNG, or any other suitable
randomization process. In one such embodiment, each game outcome or
award is associated with a probability, and the gaming system
generates the game outcome(s) and/or the award(s) to be provided
based on the associated probabilities. In these embodiments, since
the gaming system generates game outcomes and/or awards randomly or
based on one or more probability calculations, there is no
certainty that the gaming system will ever provide any specific
game outcome and/or award.
[0145] In certain embodiments, the gaming system maintains one or
more predetermined pools or sets of predetermined game outcomes
and/or awards. In certain such embodiments, upon generation or
receipt of a game outcome and/or award request, the gaming system
independently selects one of the predetermined game outcomes and/or
awards from the one or more pools or sets. The gaming system flags
or marks the selected game outcome and/or award as used. Once a
game outcome or an award is flagged as used, it is prevented from
further selection from its respective pool or set; that is, the
gaming system does not select that game outcome or award upon
another game outcome and/or award request. The gaming system
provides the selected game outcome and/or award. At least U.S. Pat.
Nos. 7,470,183; 7,563,163; and 7,833,092 and U.S. Patent
Application Publication Nos. 2005/0148382, 2006/0094509, and
2009/0181743 describe various examples of this type of award
determination.
[0146] In certain embodiments, the gaming system determines a
predetermined game outcome and/or award based on the results of a
bingo, keno, or lottery game. In certain such embodiments, the
gaming system utilizes one or more bingo, keno, or lottery games to
determine the predetermined game outcome and/or award provided for
a primary game and/or a secondary game. The gaming system is
provided or associated with a bingo card. Each bingo card consists
of a matrix or array of elements, wherein each element is
designated with separate indicia. After a bingo card is provided,
the gaming system randomly selects or draws a plurality of the
elements. As each element is selected, a determination is made as
to whether the selected element is present on the bingo card. If
the selected element is present on the bingo card, that selected
element on the provided bingo card is marked or flagged. This
process of selecting elements and marking any selected elements on
the provided bingo cards continues until one or more predetermined
patterns are marked on one or more of the provided bingo cards.
After one or more predetermined patterns are marked on one or more
of the provided bingo cards, game outcome and/or award is
determined based, at least in part, on the selected elements on the
provided bingo cards. At least U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,753,774; 7,731,581;
7,955,170; and 8,070,579 and U.S. Patent Application Publication
No. 2011/0028201 describe various examples of this type of award
determination.
[0147] In certain embodiments in which the gaming system includes a
central server, central controller, or remote host and an EGM, the
EGM is configured to communicate with the central server, central
controller, or remote host for monitoring purposes only. In such
embodiments, the EGM determines the game outcome(s) and/or award(s)
to be provided in any of the manners described above, and the
central server, central controller, or remote host monitors the
activities and events occurring on the EGM. In one such embodiment,
the gaming system includes a rear-time or online accounting and
gaming information system configured to communicate with the
central server, central controller, or remote host. In this
embodiment, the accounting and gaming information system includes:
(a) a player database for storing player profiles, (b) a player
tracking module for tracking players (as described below), and (c)
a credit system for providing automated transactions. At least U.S.
Pat. No. 6,913,534 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No.
2006/0281541 describe various examples of such accounting
systems.
[0148] As noted above, in various embodiments, the gaming system
includes one or more executable game programs executable by at
least one processor of the gaming system to provide one or more
primary games and one or more secondary games. The primary game(s)
and the secondary game(s) may comprise any suitable games and/or
wagering games, such as, but not limited to: electro-mechanical or
video slot or spinning reel type games; video card games such as
video draw poker, multi-hand video draw poker, other video poker
games, video blackjack games, and video baccarat games; video keno
games; video bingo games; and video selection games.
[0149] In certain embodiments in which the primary game is a slot
or spinning reel type game, the gaming system includes one or more
reels in either an electromechanical form with mechanical rotating
reels or in a video form with simulated reels and movement thereof.
Each reel displays a plurality of indicia or symbols, such as
bells, hearts, fruits, numbers, letters, bars, or other images that
typically correspond to a theme associated with the gaming system.
In certain such embodiments, the gaming system includes one or more
paylines associated with the reels. The example EGMs shown in FIGS.
4A and 4B each include a payline 1152 and a plurality of reels
1154. In certain embodiments, one or more of the reels are
independent reels or unisymbol reels. In such embodiments, each
independent reel generates and displays one symbol.
[0150] In various embodiments, one or more of the paylines is
horizontal, vertical, circular, diagonal, angled, or any suitable
combination thereof. In other embodiments, each of one or more of
the paylines is associated with a plurality of adjacent symbol
display positions on a requisite number of adjacent reels. In one
such embodiment, one or more paylines are formed between at least
two symbol display positions that are adjacent to each other by
either sharing a common side or sharing a common corner (i.e., such
paylines are connected paylines). The gaming system enables a wager
to be placed on one or more of such paylines to activate such
paylines. In other embodiments in which one or more paylines are
formed between at least two adjacent symbol display positions, the
gaming system enables a wager to be placed on a plurality of symbol
display positions, which activates those symbol display
positions.
[0151] In various embodiments, the gaming system provides one or
more awards after a spin of the reels when specified types and/or
configurations of the indicia or symbols on the reels occur on an
active payline or otherwise occur in a winning pattern, occur on
the requisite number of adjacent reels, and/or occur in a scatter
pay arrangement.
[0152] In certain embodiments, the gaming system employs a ways to
win award determination. In these embodiments, any outcome to be
provided is determined based on a number of associated symbols that
are generated in active symbol display positions on the requisite
number of adjacent reels (i.e., not on paylines passing through any
displayed winning symbol combinations). If a winning symbol
combination is generated on the reels, one award for that
occurrence of the generated winning symbol combination is provided.
At least U.S. Pat. No. 8,012,011 and U.S. Patent Application
Publication Nos. 2008/0108408 and 2008/0132320 describe various
examples of ways to win award determinations.
[0153] In various embodiments, the gaming system includes a
progressive award. Typically, a progressive award includes an
initial amount and an additional amount funded through a portion of
each wager placed to initiate a play of a primary game. When one or
more triggering events occurs, the gaming system provides at least
a portion of the progressive award. After the gaming system
provides the progressive award, an amount of the progressive award
is reset to the initial amount and a portion of each subsequent
wager is allocated to the next progressive award. At least U.S.
Pat. Nos. 5,766,079; 7,585,223; 7,651,392; 7,666,093; 7,780,523;
and 7,905,778 and U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos.
2008/0020846, 2009/0123364, 2009/0123363, and 2010/0227677 describe
various examples of different progressive gaming systems.
[0154] As generally noted above, in addition to providing winning
credits or other awards for one or more plays of the primary
game(s), in various embodiments the gaming system provides credits
or other awards for one or more plays of one or more secondary
games. The secondary game typically enables a prize or payout in to
be obtained addition to any prize or payout obtained through play
of the primary game(s). The secondary game(s) typically produces a
higher level of player excitement than the primary game(s) because
the secondary game(s) provides a greater expectation of winning
than the primary game(s) and is accompanied with more attractive or
unusual features than the primary game(s). It should be appreciated
that the secondary game(s) may be any type of suitable game, either
similar to or completely different from the primary game.
[0155] In various embodiments, the gaming system automatically
provides or initiates the secondary game upon the occurrence of a
triggering event or the satisfaction of a qualifying condition. In
other embodiments, the gaming system initiates the secondary game
upon the occurrence of the triggering event or the satisfaction of
the qualifying condition and upon receipt of an initiation input.
In certain embodiments, the triggering event or qualifying
condition is a selected outcome in the primary game(s) or a
particular arrangement of one or more indicia on a display device
for a play of the primary game(s), such as a "BONUS" symbol
appearing on three adjacent reels along a payline following a spin
of the reels for a play of the primary game. In other embodiments,
the triggering event or qualifying condition occurs based on a
certain amount of game play (such as number of games, number of
credits, amount of time) being exceeded, or based on a specified
number of points being earned during game play. It should be
appreciated that any suitable triggering event or qualifying
condition or any suitable combination of a plurality of different
triggering events or qualifying conditions may be employed.
[0156] In other embodiments, at least one processor of the gaming
system randomly determines when to provide one or more plays of one
or more secondary games. In one such embodiment, no apparent reason
is provided for the providing of the secondary game. In this
embodiment, qualifying for a secondary game is not triggered by the
occurrence of an event in any primary game or based specifically on
any of the plays of any primary game. That is, qualification is
provided without any explanation or, alternatively, with a simple
explanation. In another such embodiment, the gaming system
determines qualification for a secondary game at least partially
based on a game triggered or symbol triggered event, such as at
least partially based on play of a primary game.
[0157] In various embodiments, after qualification for a secondary
game has been determined, the secondary game participation may be
enhanced through continued play on the primary game. Thus, in
certain embodiments, for each secondary game qualifying event, such
as a secondary game symbol, that is obtained, a given number of
secondary game wagering points or credits is accumulated in a
"secondary game meter" configured to accrue the secondary game
wagering credits or entries toward eventual participation in the
secondary game. In one such embodiment, the occurrence of multiple
such secondary game qualifying events in the primary game results
in an arithmetic or exponential increase in the number of secondary
game wagering credits awarded. In another such embodiment, any
extra secondary game wagering credits may be redeemed during the
secondary game to extend play of the secondary game.
[0158] In certain embodiments, no separate entry fee or buy-in for
the secondary game is required. That is, entry into the secondary
game cannot be purchased: rather, in these embodiments entry must
be won or earned through play of the primary game, thereby
encouraging play of the primary game. In other embodiments,
qualification for the secondary game is accomplished through a
simple "buy-in." For example, qualification through other specified
activities is unsuccessful, payment of a fee or placement of an
additional wager "buys-in" to the secondary game. In certain
embodiments, a separate side wager must be placed on the secondary
game or a wager of a designated amount must be placed on the
primary game to enable qualification for the secondary game. In
these embodiments, the secondary game triggering event must occur
and the side wager (or designated primary game wager amount) must
have been placed for the secondary game to trigger.
[0159] In various embodiments in which the gaming system includes a
plurality of EGMs, the EGMs are configured to communicate with one
another to provide a group gaming environment. In certain such
embodiments, the EGMs enable players of those EGMs to work in
conjunction with one another, such as by enabling the players to
play together as a team or group, to win one or more awards. In
other such embodiments, the EGMs enable players of those EGMs to
compete against one another for one or more awards. In one such
embodiment, the EGMs enable the players of those EGMs to
participate in one or more gaming tournaments for one or more
awards. At least U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos.
2007/0123341, 2008/0070680, 2008/0176650, and 2009/0124363 describe
various examples of different group gaming systems.
[0160] In various embodiments, the gaming system includes one or
more player tracking systems. Such player tracking systems enable
operators of the gaming system (such as casinos or other gaming
establishments) to recognize the value of customer loyalty by
identifying frequent customers and rewarding them for their
patronage. Such a player tracking system is configured to track a
player's gaming activity. In one such embodiment, the player
tracking system does so through the use of player tracking cards.
In this embodiment, a player is issued a player identification card
that has an encoded player identification number that uniquely
identifies the player. When the player's playing tracking card is
inserted into a card reader of the gaming system to begin a gaming
session, the card reader reads the player identification number off
the player tracking card to identify the player. The gaming system
timely tracks any suitable information or data relating to the
identified player's gaming session. The gaming system also timely
tracks when the player tracking card is removed to conclude play
for that gaming session. In another embodiment, rather than
requiring insertion of a player tracking card into the card reader,
the gaming system utilizes one or more portable devices, such as a
cell phone, a radio frequency identification tag, or any other
suitable wireless device, to track when a gaming session begins and
ends. In another embodiment, the gaming system utilizes any
suitable biometric technology or ticket technology to track when a
gaming session begins and ends.
[0161] In such embodiments, during one or more gaming sessions, the
gaming system tracks any suitable information or data, such as any
amounts wagered, average wager amounts, and/or the time at which
these wagers are placed. In different embodiments, for one or more
players, the player tracking system includes the player's account
number, the player's card number, the player's first name, the
player's surname, the player's preferred name, the player's player
tracking ranking, any promotion status associated with the player's
player tracking card, the player's address, the player's birthday,
the player's anniversary, the player's recent gaming sessions, or
any other suitable data. In various embodiments, such tracked
information and/or any suitable feature associated with the player
tracking system is displayed on a player tracking display. In
various embodiments, such tracked information and/or any suitable
feature associated with the player tracking system is displayed via
one or more service windows that are displayed on the central
display device and/or the upper display device. At least U.S. Pat.
Nos. 6,722,985; 6,908,387; 7,311,605; 7,611,411; 7,617,151; and
8,057,298 describe various examples of player tracking systems.
[0162] It should be understood that various changes and
modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described
herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes
and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the present subject matter and without diminishing its
intended advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and
modifications be covered by the appended claims.
* * * * *